The Forked Sundew, Drosera binata, is a captivating carnivorous plant known for its unique appearance and insect-trapping abilities. Native to sandy marshes and swampy areas of southern and eastern Australia, Tasmania, and New Zealand, this perennial species is popular among plant enthusiasts. Its distinctive forked leaves, covered in glistening, sticky dew, make it a fascinating addition to any collection. The name “sundew” comes from the Greek word “drosos,” meaning dew or dewdrops, referencing these shimmering secretions.
Understanding the Forked Sundew
The scientific name Drosera binata aptly describes this plant, with “binata” being Latin for “having pairs,” referring to its characteristic dichotomously divided or forked leaves. These leaves can reach impressive lengths, up to 60 cm (24 inches), and vary in branching patterns, from a simple “T-form” to more complex varieties displaying up to 40 terminal leaf points. The plant’s ability to turn reddish in strong light indicates optimal growing conditions.
The carnivorous mechanism of the Forked Sundew is a marvel of nature. Its leaves are adorned with numerous mucilage-tipped tentacles, which secrete a sweet, sticky substance that lures insects. Once an insect lands, it becomes ensnared in the adhesive mucilage. The plant then slowly curls its tentacles and sometimes the entire leaf around the prey. Enzymes are secreted to digest the insect’s soft tissues, allowing the plant to absorb essential nutrients scarce in its boggy natural habitat.
Cultivation and Care
Light
Forked Sundews require abundant light to thrive and produce their characteristic sticky dew. They prefer full sun conditions, ideally receiving over six hours of direct sunlight daily for vigorous growth. Insufficient light can lead to a lack of dew production and cause the leaves to appear leggy. For indoor cultivation, strong artificial grow lights set to a 12-16 hour photoperiod can effectively replicate natural sunlight.
Water
The quality of water is paramount for Forked Sundews. They are highly sensitive to minerals and dissolved solids found in tap water. It is essential to use only distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis (RO) water. The “tray method” of watering is highly recommended, where the pot sits in a saucer filled with 1-2 inches of water. This allows the plant to absorb moisture from the bottom up, keeping the soil consistently moist. The plant should never be allowed to dry out completely.
Growing Medium
Forked Sundews demand a low-nutrient, acidic, and well-draining growing medium that mimics their natural bog environment. Standard potting soil is unsuitable and will harm the plant. A common and effective mix consists of sphagnum peat moss combined with perlite or horticultural sand in a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio. Long-fibered sphagnum moss can also be used. Repotting every 2-3 years, preferably in spring, supports the plant’s active growth and accommodates its long roots, which benefit from deeper pots.
Temperature and Humidity
Forked Sundews are warm-temperate plants that generally prefer temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 30°C). While they can tolerate brief periods outside this range, consistent extremes can cause stress. High humidity is beneficial for optimal dew production, with a range of 50-85% being ideal. Indoor growers can increase humidity using pebble trays or humidifiers.
Feeding
Under adequate light, Forked Sundews are adept at catching their own food outdoors, making supplemental feeding often unnecessary. For indoor plants, or those not catching sufficient prey, occasional supplemental feeding can promote faster and larger growth. Small insects like rehydrated bloodworms, freeze-dried bloodworms, or small live insects such as gnats or ants can be offered directly to the sticky leaves. Feeding should be done sparingly, and overfeeding should be avoided. Never use human food or chemical fertilizers on the plant.
Dormancy
Many forms of Drosera binata are temperate and require a period of winter dormancy to remain healthy long-term. During dormancy, the plant’s growth slows, leaves may turn brown, and it might die back to a resting bud (hibernaculum). To induce dormancy, temperatures should gradually drop, and light periods should shorten. During this time, the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Some subtropical forms may not require a true dormancy and can be grown year-round.
Propagation Methods
Forked Sundews can be propagated through several methods, allowing growers to expand their collection.
Seed
Growing Forked Sundews from seed is a viable method, though it can be slow. Seeds are typically surface-sown on moist, acidic media as they require light for germination. Some varieties may benefit from cold stratification to improve germination rates.
Leaf Cuttings
Leaf cuttings are a popular and effective way to propagate Drosera binata. A healthy, dew-covered leaf can be snipped off and floated on distilled water or placed on moist sphagnum moss or a peat/sand mix under bright light. Plantlets typically emerge from the cut leaf within a few weeks. Flower stalks can also be used for cuttings.
Root Cuttings
Drosera binata produces thick, robust roots, making root cuttings an easy and successful propagation method. Sections of healthy roots can be laid on moist growing medium, and new plantlets will emerge from these root segments.
Division
Mature Forked Sundew plants often form clumps over time, making division a straightforward propagation technique. During repotting, the plant can be carefully removed from its pot, and the root ball gently teased apart to separate individual crowns or clumps. Each division should have a portion of healthy roots attached. Replant the separated divisions into fresh, appropriate carnivorous plant medium.
Common Problems and Solutions
Lack of Dew
A common concern for Forked Sundew owners is the absence or reduction of the plant’s sticky dew. The primary cause is typically insufficient light, as strong light is crucial for dew production. Moving the plant to a brighter location or increasing grow light intensity can often resolve this. Low humidity or poor water quality can also inhibit dew formation.
Browning or Blackening Leaves
Browning or blackening of leaves can indicate several issues. Natural senescence, where older leaves die back as new ones grow, is a normal process. However, widespread browning or blackening can signal problems. Low humidity can cause leaves to crisp. Poor water quality, due to mineral buildup, can also lead to leaf tip burn and overall decline. Overwatering leading to root rot can also manifest as blackening leaves if the medium becomes waterlogged.
Stunted Growth
If your Forked Sundew exhibits stunted growth, it often points to inadequate growing conditions. Insufficient light is a frequent culprit, preventing the plant from photosynthesizing efficiently. Unsuitable growing medium, particularly one containing fertilizers, will also hinder growth. Maintaining consistent moisture and suitable temperature ranges are also important.
Pests
While carnivorous plants are designed to catch insects, they can still fall victim to certain pests like aphids or mealybugs. These pests can damage the plant by feeding on its sap. For minor infestations, manual removal can be effective. Avoid using conventional chemical pesticides, as many are harmful to carnivorous plants. Horticultural oil or insecticidal soap may be used cautiously for more severe infestations.